FIRST is More Than Robots
Founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST is a global nonprofit organization that prepares young people for the future through a suite of inclusive, team-based robotics programs for ages 4-18.
Founded in 1989 by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST is a global nonprofit organization that prepares young people for the future through a suite of inclusive, team-based robotics programs for ages 4-18.
Gracious professionalism, coined by Dr. Woddie Flowers (1943-2019), executive advisory board chair emeritus and distinguished advisor, is part of the ethos of FIRST. It's a way of doing things that encourages high-quality work, emphasizes the value of others, and respects individuals and the community.
Through gracious prfessionalism, fierce competition and mutual gain conexist. Participants compete intensely while treating each other with respect and empathy. There is no trashing talking, nor disingenuous platitudes. Knowledge, competition, and empathy are comfortably blended.